MLS outfit New England Revolution have confirmed they have given Plymouth permission to speak with Paul Mariner.

Mariner is still fondly remembered for his three years as a player with the Pilgrims in the 1970s and has recently been linked with a return to the club to work under manager Paul Sturrock.

The former England international is currently assistant manager to Steve Nicol at the Revolution - a position he has held since 2004.

Although Revolution have confirmed the news Plymouth are yet to do so and Mariner is currently concentrating on his side's clash with Chicago Fire at the weekend.

"Plymouth asked for permission to speak with Paul, which we granted," New England director of communications Lizz Summers told Herald Sport.

"A this point nothing is final and Paul and the rest of the coaches are concentrating on a key match against Chicago."